This paper describes a proposal that uses pattern recognition of parameters changes to identify any threatened cause of power system breakdown. The parameter changes would not only identify the most affected localities but would also trigger the appropriate countermeasures at them. This “system protection” would automatically adapt to any prevailing multiple contingency to maintain the integrity of the transmission grid, something that existing security measures are unable to achieve. Its implementation would allow higher line loadings, so gaining very large savings in the operation and development of the power system